steel

UK: stiːl | US: stiːl

Definition

  1. n. a hard, strong, malleable alloy of iron and carbon

  2. vt. to mentally or physically harden or strengthen

Structure
stee <firm, rigid (Old English "stēle")>
Etymology

The word "steel" traces back to Old English stēle, derived from Proto-Germanic stahliją, meaning "something firm or rigid." This reflects the material's durability and strength. The root is shared with German Stahl and Dutch staal. Over time, "steel" evolved to specifically denote the iron-carbon alloy, while retaining its core association with hardness and resilience.

Examples

  1. The bridge was reinforced with steel beams.

  2. He steeled himself before delivering the bad news.

  3. Stainless steel is resistant to rust.

  4. Her voice was cold as steel.

  5. The knight's sword was forged from the finest steel.